Cumberland Council required a 10-year economic strategy to guide decision‑making, investment and partnership working following the creation of the new unitary authority.

The strategy needed to provide a clear, evidence‑led framework that responded to persistent economic challenges, built on Cumberland’s strengths, and articulated a shared vision for inclusive growth over the next decade.

Our Role:

Working collaboratively with Cumberland Council, GC Insight led a multi-disciplinary team supported by CLES – Centre for Local Economic Strategies and WSP. Through the project, we:

• Developed a robust socio‑economic evidence base to understand local challenges, opportunities and long‑term trends.
• Identified and focused on three opportunity sectors - including clean growth, advanced manufacturing and nuclear decommissioning; visitor and leisure economy and culture; and rural economy and natural environment.
• Engaged with public, private and voluntary sector stakeholders to shape priorities and build consensus.
• Co‑designed a clear strategic framework structured around People, Place and Prosperity.
• Supported the development of a deliverable strategy aligned with local, regional and national policy.

Outcome:

The Cumberland Economic and Inclusive Growth Strategy 2026–2036 has been formally launched as the Council’s primary framework for driving sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

The strategy provides a shared long‑term vision for Cumberland, supports case‑making for investment, and aligns partners around a clear set of priorities for delivery over the next decade.

View the Cumberland Economic and Inclusive Growth Strategy